Interbike Dispatch: Syntace wheels, pedals, low ’29er’ stem

W MX Wheelsets

If there’s one overarching theme to this year’s Interbike, it seems, to me, to be all about wheelsize choice. Manufacturers are presenting options to suit a rider’s terrain, intended use, and riding style. Syntace’s new wheelset offerings are a prime illustration of that theme. They’re offering light rims in four different widths from average to wide: 25mm, 30mm, 35mm, and 40mm (outer width). And, all four of these widths will be available in 26”, 27.5”, and 29” diameters. Not only that, but Syntace’s Hi-Torque MX hubs can be converted via end caps to any of the modern 135mm and 142mm axle stands, including traditional QR. 150mm and 157mm version of the rear hub are also available.

Syntace wanted to push the envelope of wide and light rims with this project, and they certainly seem to have met that goal. The W40 MX 29” wheelset is said to weight in at 1,872g with 32 spokes—that’s extremely light for such a wide rim. On the other extreme, the 28-spoke version of the W25 MX 26” wheelset is said to weigh just 1,295g.

Syntace’s Hi-Torque MX hubs utilize a ratcheting system that’s very similar in execution to DT Swiss’ Star Ratchet design, but utilizes four springs instead of two.

Pricing has not yet been finalized for the US market, but these high-end wheels will likely retail for $1,200 to $1,300.

NumberNine Titan Pedals

Syntace was also showing a new version of their NumberNine pedals; the NumberNine Titan. The CNC machined, concave body is a carry over from previous generations of the pedal, with the addition of a titanium spindle which drops weight by 30 percent—288g for a size medium.

Speaking of sizes, the NumberNine Titan comes in three sizes for various size feet: small, medium, and large. Each pedal spins on 4 cartridge bearings and comes with a 10-year warranty.

FlatForce Stem

Syntace’s new FlatForce stem is specifically designed to keep the handlebars low on 29ers, a problem for flexible elite racers and smaller folks. The negative angle is designed to keep the stem roughly horizontal, which is said to place the handlebars 12mm lower.